U.S. Dept. of Agriculture Rural Development State Director for Michigan James J. Turner today joined Saginaw Chippewa Indian tribal leaders and local officials to break ground for the Mt. Pleasant Native Farmers Market.
“This project draws upon Michigan’s biodiversity and rich cultural heritage to promote economic growth,” said Turner. “It also demonstrates USDA Rural Development’s continued support for local food networks.”
The agency provided a $200,000 Rural Business Enterprise Grant to the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe for the construction of a farmers market pavilion and supporting parking lot.
Since 2009, USDA Rural Development has provided $1,120,000 in loans and $1,858,900 in grants to support 35 local food-related projects in Michigan.
USDA Rural Development State Director for Michigan James J. Turner was appointed by President Barack Obama in 2009. USDA, through its Rural Development mission area, has a portfolio of programs designed to improve the economic stability of rural communities, businesses, residents, farmers and ranchers and improve the quality of life in rural America. Under the Obama Administration, USDA Rural Development has invested more than $6.5 billion in Michigan projects.